canthoplastik

Canthoplasty, or canthoplastik, is a surgical procedure aimed at reconstructing or repositioning the canthus, the corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet. The term covers operations on both the medial (inner) and lateral (outer) canthal regions and is used for reconstructive purposes after trauma or congenital deformities, as well as for cosmetic eyelid shaping.

Indications include eyelid laxity with entropion or ectropion, telecanthus (increased distance between inner corners), epicanthus, contour deformities after injury or previous eyelid surgery, and certain aesthetic aims to alter the eye’s appearance. Medial canthoplasty addresses problems at the inner corner, such as tendon disruption or medial canthal height, while lateral canthoplasty tightens or repositions the outer corner to correct lid malpositions or scleral show.

The procedure generally involves reconstructing or tightening the canthal tendons and reattaching the lid margins in a corrected position. Medial canthoplasty may use techniques like Y-V plasty or tendon advancement; lateral canthoplasty often shortens and repositions the lateral canthal tendon, sometimes with grafts or implants to support the region. Anesthesia can be local with sedation or general.

Recovery typically includes short-term swelling and bruising, with sutures removed after about 5 to 10 days. Most patients resume normal activities within days to weeks. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, over- or under-correction, lid malposition, dry eye, and, rarely, diplopia. Canthoplasty is distinct from canthopexy, which involves tightening without cutting the canthal tendon.